Our
People

Craig HicksonManaging Director

Craig has worked in the meat industry all his professional life and is a stalwart of the sector. In 2012 he was awarded the Agribusiness Person of the Year for his outstanding contribution to the industry and in 2015 was awarded NZ Entrepreneur of the Year. Craig works closely with the Progressive Meats Leadership Team and is also a Director of Te Kuiti Meat Processors, Ovation NZ Ltd, Lean Meats Ltd, Progressive Leathers Ltd, Pasture Petfoods, Venison Packers Feilding, Beef + Lamb NZ, Wools of New Zealand and Ovita NZ.

Jim Goodall
General Manager

Jim has extensive meat industry experience, including supply chain development of chilled lamb from producer group direct to US Retail. Apart from a period living in Australia and Wales, Jim has spent most of his life in Hawke’s Bay, starting in the meat industry at Weddel Tomoana. Jim is also Director of Lean Meats Limited and US subsidiary Atkins Ranch, and is Director of Ovis Management Limited.

Chris Cardno
Site Manager

Chris joined Progressive Meats in December 2013 and previously held the position of Plant Manager at Te Kuiti Meat Processors Ltd. Chris has spent the last 15 years specialising in meat processing operations in the Hawke’s Bay and Waikato areas. In the position of Site Manager, Chris is responsible for all operations across the Hastings Site, focused on maximising productivity, yield recovery and profitability.

Rebecca McNutt
Supply Manager

Rebecca grew up on a sheep and beef property in Central Hawke’s Bay. Following overseas travel she completed a Bachelor of Science Degree with a double major in Earth Science and Geography. Rebecca joined Progressive Meats in 2015 as a Management Cadet and has recently transitioned to the Supply Manager role. Her role encompasses lamb procurement and promoting the Progressive Meats brand. Speak to Rebecca for all livestock booking enquiries for Progressive Meats.

Deb McCurrach
Livestock Administrator

Deb has been with Progressive Meats for more than 20 years and is the key person behind the livestock payment system. She is responsible for collating all kill data including ASD Forms, advising kill results to suppliers and agents, and processing supplier payments. She works closely with the livestock team, ensuring all communications with farmer suppliers are seamless.